Push Button Latches

When embarking on the journey of selecting a marine latch, careful consideration is crucial to ensure both functionality and compatibility with the unique demands of boat environments. A marine latch serves as more than a simple fastening mechanism; it is a key component in safeguarding belongings, optimizing space, and facilitating ease of access on the water. By delving into these considerations, you can confidently navigate the market and select a marine latch that not only meets your immediate needs but also stands the test of time in the demanding marine environment. Read More

Material

When purchasing a new latch for your boat or project, one of the first things to consider is what material best fits your requirements. Most modern marine latches are constructed using either plastic or stainless steel. These materials hold up well in marine environments but differ in a few ways.

Stainless steel latches are going to be the heavier, but more robust latch. Plastic latches are lighter, generally more economical, and the most common choice for boat radio boxes and electronics boxes.

Interior or Exterior Use

Not all push button latches are intended for exposure to the marine environment. Many models are designed specifically for interior cabinetry on boats and RVs. If you plan to use a push latch in a location that will be exposed to water, sun, and wind, be sure to choose a latch specified for exterior marine use.

Locking vs Non-Locking

Most marine latches are available in locking and non-locking versions. Depending on your intended use, you might be interested in one option over the other. If your push button latch is securing valuable objects or a sensitive area of your vessel, it might be smart to purchase a latch with the ability to lock. This will ensure you have an extra line of defense from thieves and prying eyes.

A locking latch can also be used in the unlocked position and does not require a key to open every time.

These are versatile latches best used to secure small access doors and glove boxes. Because push-style latches have such a small footprint, they are perfect for use in these tight locations. This style of latch is extremely easy to open and requires only one hand to operate. Most push button latches are spring-loaded and do not require pressing to close.

No! As long as the hole size, pawl length, face size, and style are the same, you can use any replacement. It is common practice to replace and upgrade latches as needed. Upgrading latches can be done to increase the durability of latches as well as for aesthetic reasons.

Yes! If ordered at the same time, locks will come keyed alike. Keyed alike means that all the purchased locks will use the same key to be opened. This reduces the number of keys you must carry and simplifies the process.

Since we at Boat Outfitters are the original supplier for most boat manufacturers, we carry most boat latches used by manufacturers. Chances are we will have an OEM part that is a perfect fit for your vessel. Contact Us today and let us help you find the perfect fit.

These latches are easily installed using simple household tools. If you are replacing a preexisting push button latch, a catch should already be installed in proper relation to your hole. If a catch is already present, simply unscrew the old latch and re-screw the new latch into its place. If you are installing a brand-new latch, you will need to also install a latch catch. A latch catch is screwed into the opposing side of the latch and offers a place for the latch pawl to catch, securing the latch.